Struggling with Heel Pain? Here's What You Should Know By Dr. Priya Rathi – Pain and Spine Specialist, Pune Heel pain is one of the most common causes of foot discomfort, especially in people who are on their feet all day or enjoy activities like walking, running, or dancing. If you wake up in the morning and feel a sharp pain in your heel when you take your first few steps, you might be dealing with a condition called plantar fasciitis. What is Plantar Fasciitis? The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. When this band becomes inflamed due to overuse, poor footwear, or other reasons, it leads to plantar fasciitis—the most common cause of heel pain. Common Symptoms • Sharp pain in the heel, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest • Pain after prolonged standing or walking • Stiffness and soreness at the bottom of the foot Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Heel Pain Many people brush it off as a minor issue, but ignoring heel pain can lead to long-term damage and reduced mobility. Early treatment can prevent worsening of symptoms and help you return to your daily activities pain-free. Treatment Options by Dr. Priya Rathi As one of the best heel pain specialists in Pune, Dr. Priya Rathi offers a range of effective, non-surgical treatments tailored to your needs: 1. Lifestyle and Footwear Modifications Wearing cushioned, arch-supportive footwear and avoiding walking barefoot can relieve symptoms. 2. Steroid Injections For those with persistent inflammation, steroid injections can offer quick pain relief. These are typically given under ultrasound guidance for precision and safety. 3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy PRP is a regenerative treatment that uses the patient’s own blood to promote healing in the inflamed plantar fascia. It’s gaining popularity as a long-term solution for chronic heel pain without the side effects of steroids. 4. Ultrasound-Guided Dry Needling Dr. Priya Rathi also specializes in ultrasound-guided dry needling, which targets deep muscular and fascial tightness contributing to heel pain. Why Choose Dr. Priya Rathi? • Fellowship-trained Pain & Spine Specialist • Expertise in non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal pain • Personalized, empathetic care • Advanced therapies like PRP and ultrasound-guided interventions Don’t let heel pain slow you down. Whether it’s plantar fasciitis or another cause, early diagnosis and expert care can make a world of difference. 📍Visit Dr. Priya Rathi, the best heel pain specialist in Pune, and take the first step toward pain-free living.